Fillings

Having a filling is an extremely common procedure. In fact, around 8 million cavities are treated with amalgam fillings each year in the UK and most of us, at some point in our lives, will have a cavity that needs attention. We offer both metal fillings and white fillings at Jenkins Dental.

Amalgam fillings

Amalgam fillings are the traditional choice and are a well-established and inexpensive way to repair tooth damage. They offer a highly effective way to restore the structure and functionality of a tooth, particularly the back teeth. This type of filling has been used for over 180 years, so it has been tried and tested on millions of mouths.

Benefits

• Extremely hard wearing
• Quicker to place than composite fillings
• Less expensive than alternative restorative methods

Looking after your filling

If looked after properly, amalgam fillings can last for years and are particularly suitable for teeth that are subjected to lots of wear and tear, such as those at the back of the mouth.

More discreet composite (white) fillings can be used to treat decayed teeth but these are more expensive and less durable.

White fillings

As well as providing an effective repair for tooth decay or damage, composite (or white) fillings are also a natural-looking alternative to more obvious amalgam fillings. This is because they are made from tooth-coloured resin, a mixture of plastic and glass that blends in beautifully with your teeth.

They support the structure of a damaged tooth, helping to prevent further breakage or sensitivity, and can be placed in the front or back teeth.

Benefits

• They blend in beautifully with your natural teeth
• Modern materials make them a durable choice
• Less of the tooth needs to be removed before placement of the filling
• They can restore decayed, chipped, worn or broken teeth

Although not considered to be as long-lasting as amalgam fillings, composite fillings are a far more attractive option and are now produced from modern materials that offer improved durability, particularly in small cavities. How long they last will depend on the depth of the cavity to be filled and its position in the mouth.

Looking after your filling

To prevent decay forming around the composite filling, it is important to brush at least twice a day and see your dentist for regular check-ups.